“Income inequality has increased in several euro area countries over the last few decades. We explore whether the relationship between income inequality and growth depends on equality of opportunity. This question is critical in the euro area where several countries exhibit higher levels of inequality of opportunities. Our econometric results confirm a robust negative effect of widening income disparities on growth in presence of high inequality of opportunity. Reducing income inequality can therefore accelerate growth in the euro area. Over the long-run, addressing the root causes of inequality of opportunity can make growth less sensitive to shifts in income distribution.”